In a statement released earlier this year, the FDA announced that it has expanded its approved uses of the drug Vyvanse to include the treatment of binge-eating disorders in adults. Until now, there were no FDA-approved drugs available to treat this disorder.
Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate), a stimulant drug, is typically prescribed for treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but researchers in two clinical studies discovered that it is also effective at reducing the instances of binge eating. The FDA put the drug through its priority review program and quickly approved it for this purpose.
Binge eating is a serious eating disorder in which the person suffering from it chronically and compulsively overeats to an extreme degree, even if they are not hungry. This results in physical discomfort as well as feelings of shame and embarrassment. Not surprisingly, this disorder is also related to obesity and the myriad health problems that accompany it. Having a medication available that can prevent or reduce its impact is therefore a necessity.
Vyvanse is not without its risks. It is a Schedule II controlled substance that has a high potential for abuse and addiction. Some common side effects are dry mouth, difficulty sleeping, increased heart rate, constipation, anxiety and a jittery feeling. Less common, but more serious, side effects include heart attack, stroke, sudden death and psychiatric problems such as hallucinations, delusional thinking, and mania.
Patients who are prescribed Vyvanse for treatment of binge eating should be monitored regularly by their doctors to ensure that they stay healthy.
You can learn more by reading the full press release from the FDA.
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